Re: Value of the big steam tractors ?

Posted by Red Dave on September 02, 2004 at 11:51:11 from (24.104.94.34):

In Reply to: Value of the big steam tractors ? posted by Way Up Here on September 02, 2004 at 10:58:08:

Just about imposible to say from afar. Size, location, rarity of the particular model all enter into it, but the big thing is condition of the boiler. Boiler repairs are a HUGE cost if needed. Lack of recent inspection doesn't mean the boiler is bad, but it doesn't inspire confidence either.

Boiler inspectors here have gotten very picky ever since the boiler explosion in Ohio a few years ago, I know of boilers that used to pass, but can't since they tightened up the rules.

Steam engines aren't for everybody. They are high maintenance and a constant cost to the owner. Upkeep, repairs, insurance all are a drain on the bank account and if the inspector says to fix something, you have to do it or you can't use it with the public present in this state. Doesn't matter to the inspector how much it costs.
You can't move it with a flat trailer and a pick-up like you can some tractors either.

I personally know two guys who hauled a big (106 HP) Sawyer-Massey here (S.E. Pennsylvania) all the way from western Canada. In a snowstorm too. So there is demand for those traction engines. Tell your friend not to scrap them. I'm guessing anywhere from $5,000 to $25,000, maybe higher if they are considered rare.

I get a magazine devoted to steam traction engines called "Steam Traction". Used to be called "Iron-Man Album". Lots of classified ads in there that may give an idea what your friends are worth. Or he could place an ad and see what happens.

Here's a link:

• Steam Traction Magazine

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